Dear colleagues, 

In Russia, and all over the world, those who use illicit drugs are pushed to the edge of society by unduly harsh prosecution and sentencing — punishment that often contradicts international conventions against torture.

All too often, they are left standing alone. Now is our chance to stand with them and make a statement.

During the 22nd International Harm Reduction Association’s Annual International Conference in Beirut, Lebanon, activists will unite to show to the world that all human rights must be respected and protected. On Monday April 4 at 12:45 in the Main Hall of the Conference Irina Teplinskaya, Community relations coordinator at Andrey Rylkov’s Foundation and EHRN Steering Committee member, will present a poster “Ill-treatment as state policy: can Russia face the scrutiny of the Committee against torture?” (see attached).  

Participants will stand on one foot on a small square — unable to put down the other foot for fear of prosecution, punishment and death — demonstrating just how little room there is to manoeuvre for those who use illicit drugs. There is literally nowhere to turn.

“Stand” with us to tell the world that those who use illicit drugs need options, not unjust punishment. Stand for what makes sense. 

Come and join us in the Main Hall of the Conference on Monday, 4 April. Please, take with you a half A4 sheet to stand on at 12:45 on one foot. We need your participation! Please disseminate widely!

Best regards, 

Larisa Abrickaja

Program Officer, Research and Information Program 

Eurasian Harm Reduction Network (EHRN)

NGO with the Special Consultative Status with Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) 

Address: Svitrigailos 11B, 03228 Vilnius, Lithuania

Tel.: +370 5 2691600

Fax: +370 5 2691601

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